Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Final preparations for the racetrack, grandstands and festivals are coming down to the wire as the Verizon IndyCar double header 2inTO which takes place July 18-20. Ryan Merchant, Sebu Simonia and Tim Warmels have been announced as Grand Marshals for the race.

"We are honoured to have Capital Cities and Tim Warmels as the grand marshals for our event," said Charlie Johnstone, President of the Honda Indy Toronto. "Each member of talent our roster enjoys international recognition and respect, and we are thrilled to have them involved in Ontario's largest sporting event to make the famous call."

The Canadian National Anthem will we sung by Danny Fernandes on Saturday and opera singer Douglas Tranquada on Sunday. Danny is a multi-MMVA winner. Opening ceremonies will start at 3 pm for both days and will include a parade lap with Nazem Kadri of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Natalie Spooner & Meaghan Mikkelson from the Women's Canadian Olympic Hockey Team and current competitors on the Amazing Race Canada.

FAN FRIDAY continues in 2014 as the Ontario Honda Dealers, in support of Make-A-Wish Canada will cover the admission cost on Friday, July 18 for people to check out the action on the track, stunt shows, contests, autograph sessions and other entertainment. The off track excitement includes motor fest, taste fest, craft beer fest, adrenalin fest, celebration fest and indy fest.

Other Honda Indy Toronto events include the introduction of the driver Scott Dixon, winner of the both the 2013 races, will attend the unveiling of the Waterford Crystal championship trophies at William Ashley at 55 Bloor St West between 5-7 pm on Wednesday, July 16. The trophies were designed and produced in Ireland for the Toronto races. On Thursday, July 17 Canadian driver James Hinchcliffe will visit the Hospital for Sick Children with Racing For Kids reps and Cooper Tires USF2000 driver Scott Hargrove to spend time with young patients. The Official Drivers' Party is open to the public and will be held at Hunter's Landing at 82 Fort York Blvd on Friday, July 18 beginning at 6 pm and with the red carpet introductions at 8 pm followed with partying with drivers, sponsors and special guests. Satuday, July 19 brings a photo op from 12:30 to 1pm with Sarah Fisher, former Degrassi TV star and, driver and owner of the Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing.

2014 Festival map

The City of Toronto has released information regarding the road closures associated with the race course setup during the Honda Indy weekend: "On Wednesday, July 16 at noon, Strachan Avenue from Lake Shore Boulevard to Fleet Street will be closed. Later that same day, as of 9 p.m., Lake Shore Boulevard from Strachan Avenue to British Columbia Drive will be closed. Both closures are in effect until Sunday, July 20 at 11:59 p.m. There will be no eastbound or westbound traffic during this closure. The only available access to Ontario Place will be from Lake Shore Boulevard at the foot of Strachan Avenue."

Doors Open

Scarborough Bluffs

Pride

Redball

Beaches

Graffiti

Lake Ontario

Nathan Phillips Square

Transportation

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